Damian McKenzie is tipped to start at first five‑eighth for the Chiefs in Christchurch on Saturday night.
It's a new era, of sorts, for the Chiefs with Colin Cooper having replaced Dave Rennie as head coach and former Crusaders assistant Tabai Matson also joining the Hamilton‑based club as a defense mentor.
With Aaron Cruden now living in France, McKenzie's transition to first‑five has come as no great surprise.
Yet Crusaders assistant coach Brad Mooar expects little to change.
If Cooper orders McKenzie to drop back to fullback on defensive set plays it puts more pressure on the Crusaders playmaker Richie Mo'unga to kick away from the 22-year-old and ensure his wings are applying immense pressure with their chases.
Defending champions, the Crusaders will play the Chiefs at 6.35pm Saturday.
The Blues will face the Highlanders at 6.35pm Friday while the Reds will take on the Rebels at 8.45pm.
On Saturday, the Sunwolves take on the Brumbies at 4.15pm, while the Waratahs will host the Stormers at 8.45pm.
On Sunday, the Lions play the Jaguares at 1.05am while the Bulls take on the Hurricanes at 3.15am.
Source: stuff.co.nz
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